Islamabad, August 21, 2023 – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vice-chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi was presented before a newly established special court in Islamabad today to address the cypher case, invoking the Official Secrets Act. Judge Abul Hasnat Muhammad Zulqarnain, who presides over anti-terrorism court No. 1, has been appointed as the judge for this specialized court, which will oversee cases related to the Official Secrets Act from all corners of the country.
The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) announced the establishment of a unified court across Pakistan to handle cases involving the Official Secrets Act. This move aims to streamline the legal process and ensure consistency in the application of the law.
The hearing for Shah Mahmood Qureshi took place behind closed doors, with only relevant parties allowed inside the courtroom. Prior to the commencement of the hearing, all unrelated individuals were requested to vacate the premises, while police officials maintained a vigilant presence outside.
During the course of today’s hearing, Judge Zulqarnain reserved the court’s decision on the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) petition to extend a 13-day physical remand for the PTI leader. The specifics of the cypher case and the evidence presented were not disclosed to the public due to the in-camera nature of the proceedings.
The case has generated substantial interest and speculation, given the importance of the Official Secrets Act in national security matters. As the proceedings continue, the nation watches closely for updates on this significant legal development involving a prominent political figure. Further hearings are scheduled to shed light on the details of the allegations and potential implications for Shah Mahmood Qureshi and the PTI party.
